It’s that time of year where we see a lot more knee issues, as the desire to run outside/in the fresh air increases over the summer months.

Runner’s knee and iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) are two common injuries. With runner’s knee the pain is focused around the knee cap, whereas with ITBS the pain is focused on the outside of the knee. The two conditions are often related, usually ITBS is one of the main causes of runner’s knee.

Both can be caused by:

• Over training 
• A rapid increase/intensity in training 
• Lack of conditioning/strength 
• Improper footwear
• Muscle imbalance (weakness or tightness)
• Musculoskeletal misalignments or restrictions

As Osteopaths we can examine, diagnose and treat, and also give you guidance on the appropriate stretching and strengthening you should be doing, specifically tailored for running.